Few decisions at polls on May 21

Local primary elections will take place throughout Lancaster county March 21 and voters will have little decisions to make when they enter the polls at this year’s primaries.

Though the election is relatively straightforward, voters will notice some changes in the school board election.

Two new candidates are on this year’s ballot including Todd Stewart and Richard Brenner. Stewart is running on both the republican and democrat ballot, while Brenner is running as republican.

Todd Stewart, a Denver resident, graduated from Cocalico High School and has been practicing law for 18 years. He currently works as an attorney in Harrisburg representing public utility companies. He grew up in a family of teachers and has been surrounded by education his entire life. Stewart has two children. His son attends Cocalico and his daughter attends Linden Hall.

"Linden Hall has an excellent level of expectations. It is possible to meet those goals in public schools as well," contended Stewart.

"My primary goal is to promote for the kids," continued Stewart. "We need to spend more effectively for programs for students and make sure the money has an appropriate balance."

Stewart is not endorsed by either party and is the only candidate running as both republican and democrat in the Cocalico school board election.

Richard Brenner was born and raised in Denver and lives there with his wife and three children. Brenner is employed by Susquehanna Bank Shares and is running for school board to stay active in his children’s district and to serve his family and community.

"It is my way of paying it forward," says Brenner. "Serving on the school board is a very important role in the community. Education is the cornerstone of a community."

Brenner is endorsed by the republican party. For more information on Brenner, visit facebook.comrwbrennercsd.

Douglas Graybill, Michael Messner and John Lorah are also running for re-election and are endorsed by the republican party.

Voters may also notice that three seats are vacant on Denver Borough Council.

"There is a three-week window to circulate nomination petitions in February and at that point in time we did not have all the slots filled," said Barry Weaver Cocalico’s Republican chairman. "But we should have a full slate of write-ins on Tuesday."

Write-in candidates will be present at the polls on Tuesday to ask voters for their support. Ten votes are required for a write in to win a seat on council.

Before voters step into the voting booth next Tuesday, here’s what to expect…